The phrase "use of mechanical breathing devices" in the definition of "basic life support" with respect to ventilators is limited to the use of automatic transport ventilators that only allow adjustment of rate, tidal volume, and inspiratory time (for adult vs. pediatric settings).

Any ventilator that exceeds the limitations of adjustment of rate, tidal volume, and inspiratory time (for adult vs. pediatric settings) shall be considered a multiple feature ventilator, and its use shall be considered specialty care transport at the paramedic level. Any interfacility transportation of a patient whose care requires a multiple feature ventilator shall be conducted only with a multiple feature ventilator unless, in the event that a multiple feature ventilator is not immediately available and in the opinion of the transferring physician, delaying the transportation of the patient until a multiple feature ventilator can be obtained would create a risk of harm to the patient.